Mayor Michael Bloomberg postponed signing a proposal aimed at regulating pedicab rates, citing concerns about potential discrimination against pedicab drivers. The proposal, which had unanimous City Council support, would require pedicabs to charge by the minute with a visible timer to prevent price-gouging. This comes after incidents like a Texas family being charged $442 for a 14-block ride. Pedicab owner Ibrahim Donmez argued that the rate system is unfair and discriminatory, suggesting that drivers should provide written fare estimates instead. Pedicabs have been under scrutiny since 2007, leading to licensing, safety standards, and fleet caps, with continued efforts to regulate the industry. Bloomberg, an advocate for pedicabs as eco-friendly, said he would decide on the measure by Friday.
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